Boyne Viaduct

The Boyne Viaduct is a magnificent railway bridge that strides across the River Boyne at Drogheda in County Louth, carrying the Dublin to Belfast main line high above the estuary. Completed in 1855 and reconstructed in steel in the early 20th century, it remains one of the most striking pieces of Victorian railway engineering on the island of Ireland, with twelve masonry approach arches on each side leading to three central lattice girder spans.

From the streets and quays of Drogheda the structure dominates the skyline, rising roughly 30 metres above the water. The best views are from the quayside near the town centre, looking east towards the estuary, or from the riverside paths that lead out towards Mornington. Cross-border Enterprise services and Irish Rail commuter trains pass overhead at regular intervals, giving photographers and railway enthusiasts plenty of opportunities to catch trains framed against the sky.

The viaduct sits within easy walking distance of Drogheda's other historic landmarks, including St Laurence's Gate and the nearby Battle of the Boyne site upstream. Drogheda railway station is a short walk from the town centre, making the bridge readily accessible by public transport from both Dublin and Belfast.